Discover the Historic Ruins at Westerplatte
Nestled in the beautiful city of Gdansk, Poland, the ruins at Westerplatte provide an insight into the country’s turbulent past. For centuries, the small peninsula was a strategic location, from its time as a royal hunting ground to its more recent role in the Second World War. Now, the remains of former military barracks and strongholds are open to visitors, providing an educational and fascinating glimpse into the region’s past.
A Brief History of Westerplatte
Westerplatte has a long and complicated history. It was originally used as a royal hunting ground by Polish kings before it was converted into a military base in the late 19th century. During the 1920s, the base was fortified with bunkers, gun emplacements and other defensive installations.
The most significant event in Westerplatte’s history occurred on September 1st, 1939, when the German battleship, Schleswig-Holstein, opened fire on the base. This marked the start of the Second World War and Westerplatte’s defenders held out for seven days before being overrun.
Exploring the Ruins of Westerplatte
The ruins are located within the grounds of the Westerplatte Monument and can be accessed by a short walk from the parking lot. The area is home to a number of important historical sites, including the former barracks and gun emplacements. There are also several memorials to commemorate the bravery of the Polish soldiers who defended the base.
The most prominent feature is the monumental obelisk, which stands at the center of the peninsula. It is dedicated to the soldiers who lost their lives in the battle and is a popular spot for visitors to pay respects.
Other Attractions at Westerplatte
In addition to the ruins, the grounds of the Monument are home to a number of other attractions. The most prominent is the Westerplatte Museum, which houses a variety of artifacts and documents related to the battle. There is also a large open-air amphitheater that hosts concerts and other events.
The surrounding area is also a great place to explore. There are several hiking trails that meander through the woods and along the shoreline, offering stunning views of the Baltic Sea.
Visiting Westerplatte
Westerplatte is easily accessible from Gdansk and the surrounding area. The ruins are open to the public daily and entry is free. Visitors are advised to dress appropriately and wear sturdy shoes as some of the terrain can be difficult to traverse.
The ruins of Westerplatte provide an important insight into the region’s turbulent past. Its fortifications and memorials offer a solemn reminder of the bravery of the Polish soldiers who defended the peninsula during the Second World War. If you’re visiting Gdansk, a trip to Westerplatte should be high on your list of places to visit.